The LEGO Animal Crossing series has been a delightful treat for fans of the popular Nintendo game, "Animal Crossing: New Horizons." Among the various iconic landmarks and structures recreated in LEGO form is the Dodo Airlines airport terminal. This particular set, introduced as a part of the second wave of LEGO Animal Crossing products, includes characters and settings that add a touch of charm to the game's narrative in LEGO style.
The LEGO set 77051, titled "Fly With Dodo Airlines," retails at a price point of $37.99 in the USA, £31.99 in the UK, and €37.99 across Europe. Suitable for builders aged seven and older, the set contains 292 pieces, which aligns it with more of a beginner to intermediate building level, though it features several elements that long-time fans and experienced builders will appreciate.
Upon unboxing, the set contains three bags filled with LEGO bricks and a single instruction booklet. Despite being a relatively small set, as evidenced by its piece count, it does not come with a brick separator, though a crowbar is included, presumably to help with detaching smaller or tightly-fitted pieces.
Diving into the construction, one of the first elements brought to life is Wilbur, the pilot character from Dodo Airlines who debuted in "New Horizons." Wilbur's LEGO minifigure is instantly recognizable with his headset and printed aviators, capturing his character's essence from the video game perfectly. However, one major downside, and perhaps the most glaring omission in this set, is the absence of Orville, Wilbur's counterpart in Dodo Airlines. Orville's absence is particularly felt since parts of the airport terminal, such as the check-in desk and departure gates, are included in the set. This exclusion seems like an oversight or a cost-cutting measure, which may disappoint fans who were hoping for the complete Dodo Airlines duo.
The physical build of Wilbur's seaplane is straightforward yet satisfying, featuring robust construction that stands up to play. It complements other sets from the LEGO Animal Crossing range by adding a dynamic, transportative element to the ensemble.
Another character featured in this set is Tangy, who might not be as iconic as some other villagers but adds variety to the lineup. The figure of Tangy is derived from the same mold as Rosie, another character from a different set, which might indicate cost savings reused by LEGO. The airport terminal itself is packed with playful nods to the original game, including decorative bricks that mimic the computer screens, tickets, and signage found within the virtual Dodo Airlines.
In terms of details, the terminal surrounds include small touches like rocks, a red crab, and stilted platforms that extend into the sea. These elements help bring the beachfront airport vibe to life, complemented by accessories such as railings and lifesaving rings. Additionally, two options for flag designs atop the terminal allow for a bit of customization, further enhancing the play experience.
As for value, at around 13 cents per piece, the cost-to-piece ratio of this set is not particularly outstanding, especially compared to non-licensed LEGO sets. However, considering the inclusion of exclusive figures and several printed elements, it maintains a certain appeal, especially for dedicated fans of the "Animal Crossing" series.
Despite some setbacks, particularly the absence of Orville, the LEGO Animal Crossing: Fly With Dodo Airlines set offers a delightful building experience with plenty of charm and character—a solid addition to the collection of any fan, provided they can overlook its few shortcomings. The set successfully captures the whimsical spirit of "Animal Crossing" while providing a rewarding build and play experience for LEGO enthusiasts.
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